Health and Wellness Minister Dr Christopher Tufton has raised alarm over what he says is a growing public health threat among young people, driven by the increasing use and misuse of alcoholic ‘specials’, vaping products, marijuana, Molly and energy drinks.

“We are seeing too many persons turning up at hospitals and at A&E, road accidents,” Tufton told THE STAR, pointing to the real-world consequences of intoxication and overconsumption. He added that in more severe cases, individuals have experienced “heart palpitations and sometimes even death” linked to excessive use of these substances.

Tufton said the Ministry of Health and Wellness is particularly worried about children and adolescents being exposed to both legal and illegal substances, many of which he says are becoming more visible and easier to access in communities, entertainment spaces and popular culture.